Kabuki in a Hall of Glory

Kabuki in a Hall of Glory

By Denis Plamondon

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Kabuki-za in Ginza Tokyo

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The countdown for the demolition of the old Kabuki-House is imminent. Before the building is torn down in 2010, why don’t you attend a farewell performance at the famous theater in Ginza while you still have a chance?

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Latest Kabuki Sayonara Performance at the Kabuki-za Tokyo

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The latest “Sayonara Kabuki” performance starts on May 2nd and runs until June 26th at the Ginza Kabuki-Za in Tokyo. The deep-rooted structure stands honorably with class among newer constructions in the chic Ginza area. News of its demolition did not go smoothly. In order to keep protesters and kabuki aficionados silent, the authorities advocated that the old building did not meet earthquake standards and regulations. So if you come to Tokyo in the next two months, or if you are simply a fan of all forms of authentic and live performance, you may want to part of history and share a moment of grandeur with these great actors before this landmark disappears.

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Kabuki-za is contrasted by a modern environment

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It won’t be rebuilt before 2013, but the architecture will be quite different then. There is no question that Kabuki will survive this transformation and transcend time and space coefficients, but the aura and treasure of the ancient theater will have vanished and survive only in the memories of those who were there.

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Posters of Kabuki play in front of Kabuki-za Tokyo

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As a Kabuki performance can be very long and expensive, you can buy a single act ticket at the west gate of the theater and watch from the last balcony on the 4th floor; the sound is still good, the huge stage is impressive and the colorful costumes of the all-male cast are astonishing. To do so, you must stand in line to purchase your ticket (800 to 1000 yen) at least one hour before the opening. Arrive even earlier if you can, as word is spreading very fast. Don’t miss out.